Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay could be used in a cash-plus-player deal to land Moises Caicedo.
Brighton have shown an interest in McTominay, prompting discussions of a potential Old Trafford switch for Caicedo, in a deal which sees the Scotland international move in the opposite direction. Caicedo has been linked with a summer move away from the south coast, with Chelsea thought to be leading the race for the £80m-rated star.
The Blues could even part-fund the move with the money they receive from United for Mason Mount.
The Mount move means United's own spending power is limited, with the deal eating into a transfer budget in the region of around £120m. However, as United look to get creative - particularly amid their quest to sign a new No.1 goalkeeper - one way around this is by including McTominay in a Caicedo deal.
However, were Brighton to land McTominay in a straight cash deal of their own, it might well pave the way for them to let Caicedo join Chelsea - thus strengthening a side United expect to be a top four rival in the coming campaign.
Brighton are very keen on McTominay, having already sold Alexis Mac Allister to Liverpool, but, as first reported by CBS, could run into competition from Roma. Giallorossi manager Jose Mourinho made good use of the midfielder during his time in charge at Old Trafford and spoke highly of him throughout his time in Manchester.
McTominay wouldn't be the only United midfielder to leave this summer, with Zidane Iqbal leaving for Utrecht and Fred potentially joining Fulham. The Brazilian is entering the final year of his contract, and all signs point to Erik ten Hag letting him leave for the right price.
Where will McTominay and Caicedo be playing next season? Have your say in the comments section
Chelsea star Mount arrived at United's training base earlier in the week as he prepares to complete his big-money move, with a medical pencilled in. On Tuesday, he shared a message laying out his reasons for trading Stamford Bridge for Old Trafford.
"I feel you deserve more than just a written statement, so I wanted to tell you directly how grateful I've been for all of your support over the last 18 years," he said. "I know some of you won't be happy with my decision, but it's what's right for me at this moment in my career. I joined Chelsea when I was six years old and we've been through a lot together.
"Winning the Youth Cup, my Player of the Year awards, the Super Cup, the Club World Cup and of course that unforgettable night when we won the Champions League. I want to say thank you to the academy, Jim (Fraser) and Neil (Bath) for being so influential to me from such a young age.
"The managers I've worked under, Frank (Lampard), Thomas (Tuchel) and Graham (Potter). The backroom staff, the unsung heroes of Cobham, all my teammates over the years that have become my brothers, my family for the continuous love and support, and most importantly, you guys for sticking with me throughout. Wish you all the best."
